Waistband And Pocket Expansion System For Garments

ABSTRACT

In certain embodiments, a waistband expansion system for a garment includes a first panel of a garment, a second panel of the garment, and a first stretch panel coupling at least a portion of the first panel to at least a portion of the second panel of the garment. The first stretch panel is made of a material with elastic properties. The first stretch panel forms a portion of a waistband of the garment and includes a first panel portion that forms an exterior portion of the garment, a second panel portion that forms an interior portion of the garment, and an elastic strip that is positioned between the first panel portion and the second panel portion. The elastic strip has first and second ends that are each secured to at least one of the first panel portion and the second panel portion by a row of stitches.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates generally to garments and more particularly to a waistband and pocket expansion system for garments.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many garments have rigid, non-expandable waistbands. Such waistbands are unable to adjust for changes in the girth of the wearer. However, the size of a wearer's waist may fluctuate throughout the day as a result of metabolic changes and/or changes in position. As the wearer's waist expands, a garment having a rigid, non-expandable waistband may become uncomfortable even where the garment otherwise properly fits the wearer.

Other garments may include an adjustable waistband that is formed by enclosing a piece of elastic within a gathered portion of fabric. The elastic portion of the waistband may be limited to the back portion of the garment or may form the entire waistband. While elastic waistbands provide the garment with the ability to adjust to changes in the girth of the wearer, the elastic causes the waistband to bunch and, thus, may be visually discernible. Additionally, elastic waistbands may be aesthetically unpleasing. For example, when unexpanded, an elastic waistband may cause bunching that prevents the garment from lying smoothly on the wearer's waist and hips. In contrast, when the girth of the wearer expands, the fabric may be pulled tight across the wearer's waist and hips in an unflattering manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, disadvantages and problems associated with previous systems and techniques for accommodating waistband expansion in a garment may be reduced or eliminated.

In certain embodiments, a waistband expansion system for a garment includes a first panel of a garment, a second panel of the garment, and a first stretch panel coupling at least a portion of the first panel to at least a portion of the second panel of the garment. The first stretch panel is made of a material with elastic properties. The first stretch panel forms a portion of a waistband of the garment and includes a first panel portion that forms an exterior portion of the garment, a second panel portion that forms an interior portion of the garment, and an elastic strip that is positioned between the first panel portion and the second panel portion. The elastic strip has first and second ends that are each secured to at least one of the first panel portion and the second panel portion by a row of stitches.

Particular embodiments of the present disclosure may provide one or more technical advantages. For example, a stretch panel positioned on opposing sides of the garment may provide stretchability and expandability of the garment. As a result, a waistband incorporating the stretch panel may be able to adjust to changes in the girth of the wearer. Accordingly, if the wearer's waist expands as a result of metabolic changes or because of changes in position of the wearer, the waist of the garment may expand with the wearer. In this manner, the garment may remain comfortable even where the girth of the wearer fluctuates.

As another example, an elastic strip may be secured within and between two portions of the stretch panel. In certain embodiments, the elastic strip may be secured on either ends to an interior portion of the stretch panel. As a result, the presence of the elastic strip may be hidden within the interior of the garment. Because the presence of the elastic strip is not discernible on the exterior of the garment, a garment incorporating the waistband expansion system may be more aesthetically appealing.

As still another example, the waistband expansion system may be incorporated into the pocket of the garment, in certain embodiments. Specifically, the stretch panel may be sewn into the garment such that the stretch panel forms a lining or facing of the pocket. Incorporating the waistband expansion system into the pocket of the garment may further hide the waistband expansion system and result in a more aesthetically appealing garment.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may include some, all, or none of the above advantages. One or more other technical advantages may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the figures, descriptions, and claims included herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To provide a more complete understanding of the present invention and the features and advantages thereof, reference is made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a garment that includes a waistband and pocket expansion system, according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a waistband expansion system formed from a one-piece stretch panel and an elastic strip, according to a particular embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates a waistband and pocket expansion system that includes a one-piece stretch panel and that forms at least a portion of the pocket facing, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a waistband and pocket expansion system formed from a one-piece stretch panel and an elastic strip, according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a waistband and pocket expansion system formed from a one-piece stretch panel and an elastic strip, according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 6 illustrates a back view of a garment that includes a waistband expansion system, according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a garment 100 that includes a waistband and pocket expansion system 102, according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. As depicted, garment 100 includes a pair of trousers such as a pair of dress or casual pants. It is generally recognized, however, that garment 100 may include any garment that includes a waistband incorporating waistband and pocket expansion system 102. Thus, garment 100 may be a skirt, skort, pair of shorts, pair of capri pants, dress, or any other garment having a waistband. Further, although only the right half portion of garment 100 is depicted, it is generally recognized that a left half portion of garment 100 may be substantially identical to the right half portion.

As depicted, waistband and pocket expansion system 102 includes a stretch panel 104 that connects to a portion of a waistband 106, front panel 108, and back panel 110. As will be described in more detail below with regard to FIGS. 2-3, stretch panel 104 may include one or more pieces of expandable fabric that enclose a piece of elastic (not shown in FIG. 1) that further forms a portion of waistband 106. Waistband 106, front panel 108, and back panel 110 may be formed from any suitable woven fabric of any appropriate composition. For example, waistband 106, front panel 108, and back panel 110 may be formed of cotton, nylon, polyester, rayon, wool, or any combination of these or other suitable woven or knit fabric materials with any elastic properties. Likewise, stretch panel 104 may also be formed of any of these woven or knit fabric materials. However, to provide a sufficient amount of stretchability and expandability, stretch panel 104 also includes elastic or stretching properties of any amount that is suitable for the intended use of the garment.

As used herein, the term “elastic” is considered to include the property of being capable of returning to its original length, shape, etc. after being stretched, deformed, compressed, or expanded. Thus, stretch panel 104, which includes elastic properties, may be formed of nylon, polyester, or a combination of nylon and/or polyester with cotton, rayon or any other suitable woven fabric or knit materials that are capable of returning to its original length, shape, etc. after being stretched, deformed, compressed, or expanded. It is generally recognized that the elasticity and stretchability of stretch panel 104 may be a result of the composition of the fabric material forming stretch panel 104. Additionally or alternatively, the elasticity and stretchability of stretch panel 104 may include mechanical stretch that is a result of the weave of the fabric. In still other embodiments, the elasticity and stretchability of stretch panel 104 may be a result of the cut of the fabric. As used in this document, the terms “elastic” and “stretch” may be interchangeable. Likewise, the terms “elasticity” and “stretchability” may also be used interchangeably.

The elasticity and stretchability of stretch panel 104 allows for the expansion of waistband 106 during wear. As a result, when the circumference of the wearer of garment 100 increases as a result of metabolic changes in the body or changes in position, stretch panel 104 allows garment 100 to expand to accommodate the changing girth of the body. For example, if the waistline of the wearer expands throughout the day (as may naturally occur) or if the waistline of the wearer expands after the consumption of a meal, stretch panel 104 may automatically expand to improve the comfort of the wearer. As another example, stretch panel 104 may expand as needed to accommodate the changing positions of the wearer. Specifically, stretch panel 104 may expand as the wearer changes from a standing to a sitting position. It is recognized, however, that these are just a few examples, and stretch panel 104 may expand for any reason to accommodate any change in the girth of the wearer.

FIG. 2 illustrates a waistband and pocket expansion system 200 that includes a one-piece stretch panel 202 and an elastic strip 204. One-piece stretch panel 202 may be substantially as described with regard to FIG. 1 and may include any of the materials or combinations of materials previously described. As depicted, one-piece stretch panel 202 comprises a piece of stretchable fabric that has been cut in the shape of a diamond. In certain embodiments, stretch panel 202 may be approximately 4-7 inches wide as measured along a centerline 206. Stretch panel 202 may be approximately 20-24 inches long as measured from point to point in a direction that is perpendicular to centerline 206. For example, in one particular embodiment, stretch panel 202 may be approximately 6 inches wide and 22 inches long. It is generally recognized, however, that stretch panel 202 may be of any shape or size that is suitable for providing a sufficient amount of expansion to waistband 106 of garment 100. Further, the dimensions of stretch panel 202 may depend on the particular size of the garment 100. Thus, a larger garment 100 may have a larger stretch panel 202.

Centerline 206 may be thought to bisect the diamond and divide the one-piece stretch panel 202 into two opposing triangles. As will be described below, first panel portion 208 may form an exterior panel that is visible on the outside of garment 100 when garment 100 is worn. Conversely, second panel portion 210 may form an interior panel that rests against the wearer of garment 100.

Elastic strip 204 may be positioned such that an upper edge 212 lies adjacent to centerline 206. Elastic strip 204 may be formed from a piece of woven or knit elastic of any desired width. In a particular embodiment, elastic strip 204 may include an elastic strip that is approximately 0.5-1.5 inches wide as measured from the edge that is adjacent to centerline 206. The length of elastic strip 204, as measured in a direction that is parallel to centerline 206, may vary depending upon the dimensions of stretch panel 202. Generally, the length of elastic strip 204 may correspond with the width of stretch panel 202 when stretch panel 202 is not stretched. In one particular embodiment, for example, elastic strip 204 may be approximately 1.5 inches wide and 6 inches long. It is recognized, however, that this is merely one example embodiment. Elastic strip 204 may be of any shape or size that is suitable for providing a sufficient amount of stretch to allow for the expansion of the waistband 106 of garment 100. Additionally, similar to stretch panel 202, the dimensions of elastic strip 204 may depend on the particular size of the garment 100. Thus, a larger garment 100 may require a wider and/or longer piece of elastic strip 204.

As depicted, each end 214 of elastic strip 204 is secured to stretch panel 202 by a line of stitches 216. Line of stitches 216 may function to create stability and maintain the stretchability of stretch panel 202. In a particular embodiment, each of the opposing ends 214 of elastic strip 204 may be secured to second panel portion 210 of stretch panel 202. In another embodiment, each of opposing ends 214 of elastic strip 204 may be secured to both the first and second stretch panel portions 208 and 210. Although elastic strip 204 may be secured to either or both of first panel portion 208 and second panel portion 210, securing elastic strip 204 to only second panel portion 210 may be more aesthetically appealing since second panel portion 210 forms the interior panel that rests against the body and is not visible on the outside of garment 100.

When incorporated into a garment such as the garment 100 depicted in FIG. 1, stretch panel 202 is folded in half along centerline 206. As such, centerline 206 becomes a fold line. First panel portion 208 may be folded down to lie adjacent to second panel portion 210 such that elastic strip 204 is enclosed within and between first and second panel portions 208 and 210. First and second panel portions 208 and 210 may then be partially secured to one another using one or more lines of stitches 218. Depending upon the design of garment 100, the one or more lines of stitches 218 may or may not be visible on the outside of garment 100. Furthermore, depending upon the design of garment 100, lines of stitches 218 may or may not be formed using a hidden seam on either or both sides of stretch panel 202.

It is generally recognized that the stretch panel 202 and elastic strip 214 depicted in FIG. 2 and described above are provided for example purposes. Substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications of these components may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, although depicted as a diamond shape prior to being folded, it is generally recognized that one-piece stretch panel 202 may be of any shape or configuration suitable for being incorporated into a garment. As such, one-piece stretch panel 202 may be square, rectangular, circular, or of any other configuration.

FIG. 3 illustrates a waistband and pocket expansion system 300 that includes a one-piece stretch panel 302 that forms at least a portion of a pocket facing within the pocket of a garment. For example, waistband and pocket expansion system 300 may form a portion of the pocket of a pair of trousers similar to those illustrated and described with regard to FIG. 1.

As depicted in FIG. 3, waistband and pocket expansion system 300 includes many features that are substantially similar to the features of waistband and pocket expansion system 200, which is described above with regard to FIG. 2. Specifically, waistband and pocket expansion system 300 includes a one-piece stretch panel 302 and an elastic strip 304. One-piece stretch panel 302 comprises a piece of stretchable fabric that has been cut in the shape of a clipped diamond. In this embodiment, the points of one-piece stretch panel 302 have been clipped leaving a rounded edge 305. Such an edge may be common for the lining or facing of a pocket bag in a pair of trousers, a skirt, or other garment. The rounded edge 305 may function to prevent the contents from falling out of the pocket bag when the wearer of the garment is seated.

Similar to stretch panel 202, stretch panel 302 includes a centerline 306 that bisects stretch panel 302 into a first panel portion 308 and a second panel portion 310. First panel portion 308 may form an exterior panel that is visible on the outside of garment 100 when garment 100 is worn while second panel portion 310 may form an interior panel that rests against the wearer of garment 100.

Also similar to stretch panel 202, stretch panel 302 may be approximately 4-7 inches wide as measured along a centerline 306, in certain embodiments. Each of first panel portion 308 and second panel portion 310 includes a first edge 312 and a second edge 314. First edge 312 may be the longer edge and may be approximately 12 inches, in certain embodiments. Second edge 314 may be the shorter edge and may be approximately 10 inches, in certain embodiments. Rounded edge 305 may lie between first edge 312 and second edge 314. As described above, when waistband and pocket expansion system 300 functions as the interior lining or facing of a pocket, rounded edge 305 may prevent contents of the pocket from falling out of the pocket bag with the wearer of the garment sits, bends over, or otherwise changes position. While such a configuration may be desirable in certain embodiments, it is generally recognized, however, that stretch panel 302 may be of any shape or size that is suitable for providing a sufficient amount of expansion for a waistband of a such as garment 100. Further, it is recognized that the dimensions of stretch panel 302 may depend on the particular size of the garment or other design considerations.

Elastic strip 304 may be formed from a piece of woven or knit elastic of any desired width. In certain embodiments, elastic strip 304 includes an elastic strip that is approximately 0.5-1.5 inches wide. The length of elastic strip 304, as measured in a direction that is parallel to centerline 306, may vary depending upon the dimensions of stretch panel 302 and/or the size of the garment. As shown, elastic strip 304 may be positioned such that an upper edge 316 of elastic strip 304 lies adjacent to center line 306.

Similar to elastic strip 204, each end 318 of elastic strip 304 is secured to stretch panel 302 by a line of stitches 320. Line of stitches 320 may function to create stability and maintain the stretchability of stretch panel 302. In a particular embodiment, each of the opposing ends 318 of elastic strip 304 may be secured to second panel portion 310 of stretch panel 302. In another embodiment, each of the opposing ends 318 of elastic strip 304 may be secured to both first panel portion 308 and second panel portion 310. However, while elastic strip 304 may be secured to either or both of first panel portion 308 and second panel portion 310, securing elastic strip 304 to only second panel portion 310 may be more aesthetically appealing since second panel portion 310 forms the interior panel that rests against the body and may not be visible on the outside of the garment.

When incorporated into a garment such as the garment 100 depicted in FIG. 1, stretch panel 302 is folded in half along centerline 306. As such, centerline 306 becomes a fold line. First panel portion 308 may be folded down to lie adjacent to second panel portion 310 such that elastic strip 304 is enclosed within and between first and second panel portions 308 and 310. First and second panel portions 308 and 310 may then be partially secured to one another using one or more lines of stitches 324 Depending upon the design of the garment, the one or more lines of stitches 324 may or may not be visible on the outside of the garment.

As discussed above, stretch panel 302 may form at least a portion of a pocket lining or facing within the pocket of a garment. Accordingly, the points of one-piece stretch panel 302 have been clipped leaving a rounded edge 305. Rounded edge 305 is a feature that is commonly included on the material that is used as the facing in the pocket of a pair of trousers, a skirt, or other garment. The rounded edge 305 results in a lower point 322. Specifically, first panel portion 308 and second panel portion 310 are folded along centerline 306 and sewn together along seam 324. Waistband and pocket expansion system 300 may then be sewn into the garment as all or a portion of the pocket liner or facing. Lower points 322 create a lower cavity within the pocket bag that operates to catch the contents of the pocket and prevents the contents of the pocket from falling out when the wearer of the garment is seated or otherwise changes position.

It is generally recognized that the stretch panel 302 and elastic strip 304 that are depicted in FIG. 3 and described above are provided for example purposes. Substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications of these components may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, although depicted as a diamond shape prior to being folded, it is generally recognized that one-piece stretch panel 302 may be of any shape or configuration suitable for being incorporated into a garment. As such, one-piece stretch panel 302 may be square, rectangular, circular, or of any other configuration.

As another example, while it is described that stretch panel 302 is formed from a single piece of fabric, stretch panel 302 may be formed from multiple pieces of fabric that are sewn or otherwise secured together. For example, first panel portion 308 and second panel portion 310 may comprise two separate pieces of fabric that are sewn together along what is depicted as centerline 306. In such an embodiment, centerline 306 would include a seam. After being sewn together, first and second panel portions 308 and 310 may be folded along the seam such that first and second panel portions 308 and 310 lie adjacent to each other as described above.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a waistband and pocket expansion system 400 formed from a one-piece stretch panel 402 and an elastic strip 404, according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. One-piece stretch panel 402 may be substantially as described with regard to FIGS. 1-3 and may include any of the materials or combinations of materials previously described. Accordingly, only those features that have been modified from the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2 are described.

Rather than being cut in the shape of a diamond, one-piece stretch panel 402 comprises a piece of stretchable fabric that has been cut in the shape of a triangle that is extended along the top to include a seam allowance. In particular embodiments, the triangle portion of stretch panel 402 may be considered a first portion 406 of one-piece stretch panel 402 while the seam allowance portion of stretch panel 402 may be considered a second portion 408 of one-piece stretch panel 402. A fold line 410 may divide the one-piece stretch panel 402 into first portion 406 and second portion 408.

In a particular embodiment, FIG. 4A depicts an interior view of one-piece stretch panel 402. Stated differently, the depiction of one-piece stretch panel 402 is of the inside pant side. Elastic strip 404 is positioned such that a first edge 412 of elastic strip 404 lies adjacent to fold line 410 on the outside pant side of stretch panel 402. Elastic strip 404 may be secured to the outside pant side of second portion 408 using a line of chain stitches 414 or other stitch that provides or allows some amount of stretchability or expandability.

When incorporated into a garment such as the garment 100 depicted in FIG. 1, stretch panel 402 is folded along fold line 410. FIG. 4B depicts an interior view of one-piece stretch panel 402 after second portion 408 and elastic strip 404 are folded along fold line 410 toward the interior side of stretch panel 402. As depicted, each end 416 of elastic strip 404 is secured to stretch panel 402 by a first line of stitches 418. In addition to securing the ends of elastic strip 404, line of stitches 418 may also function to create stability and maintain the stretchability of stretch panel 402. In certain embodiments, lines of stitches 418 or at least a portion thereof may be stitched through each of elastic strip 404, first panel portion 406 and second panel portion 408. However, in other embodiments, lines of stitches 418 may traverse through elastic strip 404 and either of first panel portion 406 and second panel portion 408. A second line of stitches 420 may be used to secure a second edge 422 of elastic strip 404 to first panel portion 406.

In certain embodiments, a third line of stitches 424 may be used to incorporate one-piece stretch panel 402 into the garment. Third line of stitches 424 may be an extension of first line of stitches 418 such that third line of stitches 424 begins at the second edge 422 of elastic strip 404 and extends down to the point of first panel portion 406. Alternatively, third line of stitches 424 may be in addition to first line of stitches 418 and may extend the entire length of first panel portion 406 from fold line 410 to the point of first panel portion 406.

It is generally recognized that the stretch panel 402 and elastic strip 404 depicted in FIGS. 4A and 4B and described above are provided for example purposes. Substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications of these components may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, dotted lines 426 are used to illustrate how one-piece panel 402 may be extended and modified at the point to include a rounded edge 428 if one-piece expansion panel 402 is to be incorporated into the lining or facing of a pocket bag in a pair of trousers, a skirt, or other garment. Where included, rounded edge 428 may function to prevent the contents from falling out of the pocket bag when the wearer of the garment is seated. Additional details with regard to an example of a rounded edge for incorporation in a pocket are described above with regard to FIG. 3.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a waistband and pocket expansion system 500 formed from a one-piece stretch panel 502 and an elastic strip 504, according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. One-piece stretch panel 502 may be substantially as described with regard to FIGS. 1-3 and may include any of the materials or combinations of materials previously described. Accordingly, only those features that have been modified from the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2 are described.

Rather than being cut in the shape of a diamond, one-piece stretch panel 502 comprises a piece of stretchable fabric that has been cut in the shape of a triangle that is extended along the top to include a elastic strip portion. In particular embodiments, the triangle portion of stretch panel 502 may be considered a first portion 506 of one-piece stretch panel 502 while the elastic strip portion of stretch panel 502 may be considered a second portion 508 of one-piece stretch panel 502. A fold line 510 may divide the one-piece stretch panel 502 into first portion 506 and second portion 508.

In a particular embodiment, FIG. 5A depicts an interior view of one-piece stretch panel 502. Stated differently, the depiction of one-piece stretch panel 502 is of the inside pant side. Elastic strip 504 is positioned such that a first edge 512 of elastic strip 504 lies adjacent to fold line 510 on the inside pant side of stretch panel 502. A second edge 514 of elastic strip 504 lies adjacent to a top edge of second portion 508. Second edge 514 of elastic strip 504 and the top edge of second portion 508 may be stitched together using a line of serge stitches 516.

When incorporated into a garment such as the garment 100 depicted in FIG. 1, stretch panel 502 is folded along fold line 510. FIG. 5B depicts an interior view of one-piece stretch panel 502 after second portion 508 and elastic strip 504 are folded along fold line 510 toward the inside pant side of first panel portion 506. Second panel portion 508 may be folded down to lie adjacent to first panel portion 506 such that elastic strip 504 is enclosed within and between first and second panel portions 506 and 508.

As depicted, each end 518 of elastic strip 504 is secured to stretch panel 502 by a first line of stitches 520. In addition to securing the ends of elastic strip 504, line of stitches 520 may also function to create stability and maintain the stretchability of stretch panel 502. In certain embodiments, first line of stitches 520 or at least a portion thereof may be stitched through each of elastic strip 504, first panel portion 506 and second panel portion 508. Thus, first line of stitches 520 may be added after second panel portion 508 is folded with respect to first panel portion 506. In other embodiments, first line of stitches 520 may be added prior to the folding of second panel portion 508 relative to first panel portion 506. Thus, first line of stitches 520 may traverse through only elastic strip 504 and second panel portion 508, in certain embodiments. As depicted in FIG. 5B, a second line of stitches 522 may be used to secure first edge 512 (shown in FIG. 5A) of elastic strip 504 as disposed between first panel portion 506 and second panel portion 508. Second line of stitches 522 may include a line of chain stitches or other stitches that provide or allow some amount of stretchability or expandability.

In certain embodiments, a third line of stitches 524 may be used to incorporate one-piece stretch panel 500 into the garment. Third line of stitches 524 may be an extension of first line of stitches 520 such that third line of stitches 524 begins at the second edge 516 of elastic strip 504 and extends down to the point of first panel portion 506. Alternatively, third line of stitches 524 may be in addition to first line of stitches 520 and may extend the entire length of first panel portion 506 from fold line 510 to the point of first panel portion 506.

It is generally recognized that the stretch panel 500 and elastic strip 504 depicted in FIGS. 5A and 5B and described above are provided for example purposes. Substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications of these components may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, dotted lines 526 are used to illustrate how one-piece panel 500 may be extended and modified at the point to include a rounded edge 528 if one-piece expansion panel 500 is to be incorporated into the lining or facing of a pocket bag in a pair of trousers, a skirt, or other garment. Where included, rounded edge 528 may function to prevent the contents from falling out of the pocket bag when the wearer of the garment is seated. Additional details with regard to an example of a rounded edge for incorporation in a pocket are described above with regard to FIG. 3. As another possible modification, it is generally recognized that, depending upon the design of the garment, the first line of stitches 520 may or may not be visible on the outside of the garment. Furthermore, depending upon the design of the garment, third line of stitches 524 may or may not be formed using a hidden seam on either or both sides of stretch panel 502.

FIG. 6 illustrates a back view of a garment 600 that includes a waistband 602 and waistband expansion system 604, according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, garment 600 includes a pair of trousers such as a pair of dress or casual pants that includes waistband expansion system 604 being incorporated in the center back of the garment 600. It is generally recognized, however, that garment 600 may include any garment that includes a waistband incorporating waistband expansion system 604. Thus, garment 600 may be a skirt, skort, pair of shorts, pair of capri pants, dress, or any other garment having a waistband. Further, although only the back side portion of garment 600 is depicted, it is generally recognized that a front side portion of garment 600 may be substantially identical to the back side portion.

As depicted, waistband expansion system 604 includes a stretch panel that connects to a portion of a waistband 602, a back right panel 606, and a back left panel 608. Similar to any one of the embodiments described above with regard to FIGS. 2, 3, 4A-4B, and 5A-5B, it is generally recognized that stretch panel 604 may include one or more pieces of expandable fabric that is attached to or encloses a piece of elastic (not shown in FIG. 6) that further forms a portion of waistband 602.

The elasticity and stretchability of stretch panel 604 allows for the expansion of waistband 606 during wear. As a result, when the circumference of the wearer of garment 600 increases as a result of metabolic changes in the body or changes in position, stretch panel 604 allows garment 600 to expand to accommodate the changing girth of the body. For example, if the waistline of the wearer expands throughout the day (as may naturally occur) or if the waistline of the wearer expands after the consumption of a meal, stretch panel 604 may automatically expand to improve the comfort of the wearer. As another example, stretch panel 604 may expand as needed to accommodate the changing positions of the wearer. Specifically, stretch panel 604 may expand as the wearer changes from a standing to a sitting position. It is recognized, however, that these are just a few examples, and stretch panel 604 may expand for any reason to accommodate any change in the girth of the wearer.

It is generally recognized that the stretch panel 600 depicted in FIG. 6 and described above is provided for example purposes. Substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications of these components may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, though stretch panel 604 is shown as including a half circle or arch, it is generally recognized that stretch panel 605 may be a modified diamond or triangle similar to the embodiments described above with regard to FIGS. 1-3, 4A-4B, and 5A-5B or any other suitable shape for providing expandability to a garment.

Particular embodiments of the present disclosure may provide one or more technical advantages. For example, a stretch panel positioned on opposing sides of the garment may provide stretchability and expandability of the garment. As a result, a waistband incorporating the stretch panel may be able to adjust to changes in the girth of the wearer. Accordingly, if the wearer's waist expands as a result of metabolic changes or because of changes in position of the wearer, the waist of the garment may expand with the wearer. In this manner, the garment may remain comfortable even where the girth of the wearer fluctuates.

As another example, an elastic strip may be secured within and between two portions of the stretch panel. In certain embodiments, the elastic strip may be secured on either ends to an interior portion of the stretch panel. As a result, the presence of the elastic strip may be hidden within the interior of the garment. Because the presence of the elastic strip is not discernible on the exterior of the garment, a garment incorporating the waistband expansion system may be more aesthetically appealing.

Although the present invention has been described with several embodiments, diverse changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications may be suggested to one skilled in the art, and it is intended that the invention encompass all such changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications as fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A waistband expansion system for a garment, comprising: a front panel of a garment; a back panel of the garment; a pair of stretch panels positioned on opposing sides of the garment, each of the pair of stretch panels coupling at least a portion of the front panel to at least a portion of the back panel of the garment, the pair of stretch panels made of material with elastic properties and forming a portion of a waistband of the garment, wherein each of the pair of stretch panels comprises: a first panel portion that forms an exterior portion of the garment; a second panel portion that forms an interior portion of the garment; and an elastic strip that is positioned between the first panel portion and the second panel portion, the elastic strip having first and second ends that are each secured to at least one of the first panel portion and the second panel portion by a row of stitches, and wherein: the first stretch panel forms a portion of a first pocket on a first side of the garment, the second stretch panel forms a portion of a second pocket on a second side of the garment, each of the first and second stretch panels are formed of a single piece of fabric that is formed along a centerline,
 2. A waistband expansion system for a garment, comprising: a first panel of a garment; a second panel of the garment; a first stretch panel coupling at least a portion of the first panel to at least a portion of the second panel of the garment, the first stretch panel made of a material with elastic properties and forming a portion of a waistband of the garment, wherein the first stretch panel comprises: a first panel portion that forms an exterior portion of the garment; a second panel portion that forms an interior portion of the garment; and an elastic strip that is positioned between the first panel portion and the second panel portion, the elastic strip having first and second ends that are each secured to at least one of the first panel portion and the second panel portion by a row of stitches.
 3. The waistband expansion system of claim 2, further comprising: a third panel of a garment; a fourth panel of the garment; and a second stretch panel coupling at least a portion of the third panel to at least a portion of the fourth panel of the garment, the second stretch panel made of a material with elastic properties and forming a portion of a waistband of the garment, wherein the first stretch panel and second stretch panel are positioned on opposing sides of the garment, wherein the first and third panels of the garment form a front of the garment, and wherein the second and fourth panels of the garment form a back of the garment.
 4. The waistband expansion system of claim 3, wherein: the garment further comprises a pair of pockets positioned on opposing sides of the garment, the first stretch panels forms a lining or facing for a first one of the pair of pockets, and the second stretch panel forms a lining or facing for a second one of the pair of pockets.
 5. The waistband expansion system of claim 2, wherein the first panel portion and the second panel portion are formed of a single piece of fabric that is folded along a centerline.
 6. The waistband expansion system of claim 2, wherein: the first panel portion is formed of a first piece of fabric; the second panel portion is formed from a second piece of fabric; and at least one edge of each of the first panel portion and the second panel portion are stitched together.
 7. The waistband expansion system of claim 2, wherein the first stretch panel has a diamond configuration that includes a pair of opposing clipped points, each of the pair of clipped points having a rounded edge.
 8. The waistband expansion system of claim 2, wherein: the first stretch panel is positioned on a first side of the garment, the first panel of the garment forms a front of the garment, and the second panel of the garment forms a back of the garment.
 9. The waistband expansion system of claim 2, wherein: the first stretch panel is positioned on a back side of the garment, the first panel of the garment forms a first back panel of the garment, and the second panel of the garment forms a second back panel of the garment.
 10. The waistband expansion system of claim 2, wherein the first stretch panel has a truncated diamond configuration such that the first panel portion has a substantially triangular configuration and the second panel portion has a substantially trapezoidal configuration.
 11. A method for assembling a garment that includes a waistband expansion system, comprising: positioning a first elastic strip proximate to a first panel portion of a first stretch panel, the first elastic strip having first and second ends that are each secured to the first panel portion by a row of stitches; positioning a second panel portion relative to the first panel portion to form the first stretch panel, wherein the first elastic strip is disposed between the first panel portion and the second panel portion; stitching at least a portion of the first panel portion to the second panel portion; positioning the first stretch panel along a waistband of a garment; and coupling the first stretch panel between a first panel of a garment and a second panel of the garment, the first stretch panel forming a first portion of the waistband of the garment.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the first stretch panel forms a lining or facing for a pocket.
 13. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming the first panel portion and the second panel portion from a single piece of fabric that is folded along a centerline.
 14. The method of claim 11, further comprising: forming the first panel portion from a first piece of fabric; forming the second panel portion from a second piece of fabric; and stitching at least one edge of each of the first panel portion and the second panel portion together.
 15. The method of claim 11, wherein the stretch panel has a diamond configuration that includes a pair of opposing clipped points, each of the pair of clipped points having a rounded edge.
 16. The method of claim 11, further comprising positioning the first stretch panel on a first side of the garment, and wherein: the first panel of the garment forms a front of the garment, and the second panel of the garment forms a back of the garment.
 17. The method of claim 11, further comprising: positioning a second elastic strip proximate to a first panel portion of a second stretch panel, the second elastic strip having first and second ends that are each secured to the first panel portion of the second stretch panel by a row of stitches; positioning a second panel portion of the second stretch panel relative to the first panel portion to form the second stretch panel, wherein the second elastic strip is disposed between the first panel portion and the second panel portion of the second stretch panel; stitching at least a portion of the first panel portion to the second panel portion of the second stretch panel; positioning the second stretch panel along the waistband of the garment; and coupling the second stretch panel between a first panel of the garment and a second panel of the garment, the second stretch panel forming a second portion of the waistband of the garment.
 18. The method of claim 11, further comprising positioning the first stretch panel on a back side of the garment, and wherein the first panel of the garment forms a first back panel of the garment, and the second panel of the garment forms a second back panel of the garment.
 19. The method of claim 11, wherein the first stretch panel has a truncated diamond configuration such that the first panel portion has a substantially triangular configuration and the second panel portion has a substantially trapezoidal configuration.
 20. A waistband expansion system for a garment, comprising: a first panel of a garment; a second panel of the garment; a first stretch panel coupling at least a portion of the first panel to at least a portion of the second panel of the garment, the first stretch panel made of a material with elastic properties and forming a portion of a waistband of the garment, wherein the first stretch panel comprises: a first panel portion that forms an exterior portion of the garment; a second panel portion that forms an interior portion of the garment; and an elastic strip that is coupled at a first edge to the second panel portion and at a second edge to the first panel portion, the elastic strip having first and second ends that are each secured to at least one of the first panel portion and the second panel portion by a row of stitches.
 21. The waistband expansion system of claim 20, wherein the first panel portion and the second panel portion are formed of a single piece of fabric that is folded along a centerline.
 22. The waistband expansion system of claim 20, wherein: the first stretch panel is positioned on a first side of the garment, the first panel of the garment forms a front of the garment, and the second panel of the garment forms a back of the garment.
 23. The waistband expansion system of claim 20, wherein: the first stretch panel is positioned on a back side of the garment, the first panel of the garment forms a first back panel of the garment, and the second panel of the garment forms a second back panel of the garment. 